Prescription Monitoring Program (PMP)
The Prescription Monitoring Program (PMP) collects prescribing and dispensing information on Massachusetts Schedule II controlled substances dispensed pursuant to a prescription. Schedule II consists of those prescription pharmaceuticals with the highest potential for abuse (e.g., narcotics, stimulants), and consequently, they are among those most sought for illicit and inappropriate (non-medical) use. The PMP utilizes the data collected to determine prescribing and dispensing trends; provide educational information to health care providers and the public; and provide case information to regulatory and law enforcement agencies concerning drug distribution and diversion.
The Department of Public Health established the PMP in 1992 pursuant to joint regulations of the Drug Control Program (see 105 CMR 700.006(J)) and the Board of Registration in Pharmacy (see 247 CMR 5.04). The program uses a computer-based, Electronic Data Transfer (EDT) system to collect prescription data. During FY07, approximately 1,200 community, registered Massachusetts health care facility pharmacies in Massachusetts collectively reported over 3.2 million prescriptions for Schedule II drugs to the EDT system. Medical Review Groups (MRGs), comprised of practitioners (e.g., physicians, dentists) and pharmacists, provide peer review of the medical data and assist the Department in reviewing data for release to law enforcement and regulatory agencies. Data related to over 1,988 cases have been reviewed by the MRGs since 1994.
The Massachusetts PMP is prominently featured in the Commonwealth’s Substance Abuse Strategic Plan (http://www.mass.gov/dph/bsas/), which recommends enhancement and more widespread use of the program . The PMP has been awarded grants in the past few years from the U.S. Department of Justice to undertake program enhancement initiatives, which are currently underway.
For general information on PMPs, including programs in other states, see the following website and its link to U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration information on PMPs: http://www.nascsa.org/monitoring.htm. For additional information on the Massachusetts PMP, please contact the Drug Control Program at (617) 983-6700.
PHC Memo: Request for Final Promulgation of Amendments to Regulations at 105 CMR 700.000 concerning the Prescription Monitoring Program (PDF) | RTF
FAQ's On PMP Amendments - Updated on December 31, 2008 (PDF) | RTF
Prescription Monitoring Program (PMP) Handbook - September 16, 2008 (PDF) | RTF
Related Links
This information is provided by the Drug Control Program within the Department of Public Health.